Samba Jazz Odyssey
Zoho, 2022
8/10
A German native and current New York resident who knows his way around a Latin jazz tune with his skilled harmonica, Hendrik Meurkens aligns himself with the WDR Big Band for this samba flavored affair.
“A Night In Jakarta” opens the listen with the bright brass and twinkling keys flowing alongside Meurkens’ well timed harmonica, and “Manhattan Samba” follows with a lively and festive spirit that showcases Hans Dekker’s drumming acrobatics.
“Sambatropolis” arrives in the middle, and emits dynamic brass interaction amid the upbeat rhythm, while “Mountain Drive” finds a cozy place to reside and showcases a thriving solo from Andi Haderer’s trumpet.
Near to the end, “Samba Tonto” shifts between 2/4 and 3/8 and the unpredictable meters are just as splendid as the woodwinds, and “Choro” exits the listen with a Jobim interpretation that benefits from trumpet, harmonica, trombone and piano solos.
An extremely energetic and soulful body of work, Meurkens’ harmonica and Michael Phillip Mossman’s conducting sure do suit the timeless and worldly instrumentation on this excellent assembly of profound talent.
Travels well with: Noah Bless- New York Strong- Latin Jazz!; Arturo O’Farrill and The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra- Four Questions